2024 Mpox outbreak response: How to address language and communication barriers to maximize the reach of mpox risk communication
Download this brief as a pdf. In a public health emergency, people need clear, accessible communication to take action and keep themselves safe. But a lack of language awareness can harm the reach and effectiveness of the response. As learning from the Covid-19 and Ebola responses has shown, language and communication barriers: Reduce access to […]
Speaking the language of assistance in DRC
Speaking the language of assistance: Comprehension of language and terms used in Multi-Sector Needs Assessments in DRC To support humanitarian response in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), REACH conducts numerous assessments each year independently and in collaboration with other humanitarian organizations, including the annual Multi-Sector Needs Assessment (MSNA), carried out with WFP and […]
Insights into community needs and wishes – eastern DRC
Insights into community needs and wishes – eastern DRC People need effective humanitarian reporting systems for sexual exploitation and abuse in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). And they need practical information in languages they understand. Read the report in English. Read the report in French. Read the report in Congolese Swahili. Preview […]
Tanganyika province, DRC language map (EN)
Languages spoken in territories in Tanganyika province, DRC.
Language map of Ituri, DRC: Static (EN)
Languages spoken in Aru, Djugu, Irumu, Mahagi, and Mambasa Territories in Ituri Province, DRC.
Localized communication minimizes the impact of Ebola in DRC
The response to the 11th Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) proved the merits of local, multilingual communication with communities. TWB’s research found significant progress compared with the response to the 10th outbreak, and to the many humanitarian emergencies that have affected DRC to date. However, our research also highlighted the need […]
The Language Factor: Lessons for the 11th Ebola outbreak on adapting to the language needs of communities learned during the 10th Ebola epidemic in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Previous Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreaks offer lessons for public health experts responding to the 11th outbreak. This review highlights that responders need to build more trust with the communities they serve. It suggests that language is fundamental to that. The ninth, 10th and 11th outbreaks of Ebola virus disease have taken place in very […]
The challenges of translation into Congolese Swahili
“How can we contribute if we can’t participate?” The accessibility of humanitarian guidance to local and national organisations
PSEA recommendations: Language issues for safeguarding
TWB’s research shows that a language sensitive response to Ebola outbreaks could improve understanding and trust in key messages. It will enhance the accessibility of RCCE and AAP mechanisms, including the reporting of SEAH and support to survivors. Learning from the outbreak in DRC, TWB would recommend the actions to take as part of protection […]